Download Causes of Dyspareunia - Andrew L. Siegel, MD

Causes of Dyspareunia (Pain During Sexual Intercourse)
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Tipped or retroverted uterus - Some women with a tipped uterus
experience pain during intercourse. This happens when the penis hits the
cervix or uterus during sex. This condition is known as “collision
dyspareunia.”
Endometriosis - The tissue lining the uterus - the endometrium - may grow
outside the uterus, causing deep pain during sex.
Infection - Bacterial or yeast infections are among the most common
causes of pain during intercourse.
Lack of estrogen - During menopause, the vaginal walls thin and the
amount of vaginal lubrication decreases.
Vulvodynia - In this condition, the vulva is hypersensitive and extremely
tender to touch.
Drug side effects – Commonly used drugs including those for allergy, high
blood pressure or depression may affect the amount of vaginal lubrication,
as well as the level of sexual arousal and desire.
Physical problems - Scar tissue from abdominal surgery or from childbirth
can distort the anatomy and cause significant pain during intercourse. A
cyst on an ovary can also cause pain.
Pelvic floor myalgia - Pelvic floor muscle spasms are involuntary muscle
spasms and can result in difficult and uncomfortable sex.
Emotional issues - Sometimes, past issues such as sexual abuse or
communication problems in a relationship can translate into sexual
difficulties